The Unreformed Parliament and its Critics

parliamentary system

system of government where the people elect representatives to sit on their behalf, retaining ultimate power

democracy

when people can make their own political choices

codified

something that has been clearly written down

constitution

fundamental principles by which a state runs its government

patronage

paying for someone’s ambitions by funding or using influence

what were counties?

rural areas in Britain- elected 2 MPs to Westminister

when was the Act of Parliament?

1430

what was the Act of Parliament?

to qualify in elections, you had to own property making 40 shillings (£2) annually

what were boroughs?

urban towns which elected 2 MPs to Westminister, but franchise qualification was very broad

what were the franchise qualifications in boroughs?

• Corporation- only members of town council could vote

• Freemen- anyone with this status could vote (inherited or bestowed if an honour was received)

• Scot and Lot- anyone who paid poor rates could vote

• Potwalloper- householders with hearth big enough for a pot to boil

• Freeholder- similar franchise as the counties

when was the Secret Ballot Act?

1872